2.7. Active Recall and Spaced Repetition (Test Taking Skill)
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand and explain the concepts of active recall and spaced repetition.
- Apply active recall by practicing with flashcards to retrieve information from memory.
- Create a spaced repetition study plan to reinforce key CMA exam topics over time.
- Reflect on and discuss how these techniques can improve their study habits and exam preparation.
Part 1: Warm-Up :
Study Strategies Discussion
Think about how you currently study for exams. Write down your answers to the following questions:
- What strategies do you use to study for exams?
- Have you ever heard of active recall or spaced repetition? If yes, what do you know about them?
- Share your answers with a partner. Then, as a class, we will discuss and write key points on the board.
Part 2: Active recall
What is Active Recall?
- Active recall means actively retrieving information from your memory instead of just reading or reviewing it passively. It helps strengthen your memory and makes it easier to remember information later.
Flashcard Practice
- Work with a partner. Your teacher will give you a set of flashcards with key CMA terms or concepts.
- One student will quiz their partner by showing the term or concept on the flashcard. The partner must recall the definition or explanation.
- After 5 minutes, switch roles so both students get a chance to practice.
Reflection
How did it feel to recall the information instead of just reading it?
Do you think this method could help you remember information better? Why or why not?
Part 3: Spaced repetition
What is Spaced Repetition?
- Spaced repetition means reviewing material at increasing intervals (e.g., after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, etc.). This technique helps you remember information for a longer time.
Example of a Spaced Repetition Schedule:
- Day 1: Review the material.
- Day 3: Review the same material again.
- Day 7: Review it one more time.
- Day 14: Review it again.
Discussion Questions:
- How could you combine spaced repetition with active recall?
- Why do you think reviewing material multiple times over a longer period helps you remember it better?
Practice Spaced Repetition: Create a Study Plan
- Use the template below to create your own spaced repetition study plan. Choose 3-5 key topics from your CMA study materials that you feel need reinforcement.
- Write the topics in the first column. Then, set specific dates for your initial review and follow-up reviews.
| Topic | Initial Review Date | Follow-Up Review 1 | Follow-Up Review 2 | Follow-Up Review 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example: Medical Terms | May 4, 2025 | May 6, 2025 | May 11, 2025 | May 11, 2025 |
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- Share your study plan with a partner. Discuss:
- Why you chose these topics.
- How you decided on your review intervals.
- Volunteers will share their plans with the class.
Part 4: Wrap-Up
Reflection and Questions
Reflection Questions:
- What did you learn about active recall and spaced repetition today?
- How do you think these techniques will help you prepare for the CMA exam?
- What challenges do you think you might face when using these techniques? How can you overcome them?
Class Discussion:
- Ask any questions you have about active recall, spaced repetition, or how to apply them to your study routine.
